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Pato discusses Chelsea spell and plans for future

Alexandre Pato says he does not regret joining Chelsea in January and hopes to remain in Europe rather than return to Brazil.

Pato joined Chelsea on loan from Corinthians in January but made only two appearances, scoring in the 4-0 victory at Aston Villa in April.

Despite his frustrating spell in the Premier League, the 26-year-old would prefer not to return to South America.

“I want to stay in Europe,” he told SporTV.” My head is turned to Europe. I want to play there. But if not, I’ll come back here [Brazil].

“I told my agent that at the moment I do not want to listen to anyone in Brazil. Since I cannot say yes or no at this point, I do not want to make anyone hopeful or angry. Let’s see through July 1 and if nothing happens in Europe we sit and listen to these clubs.

“I do not regret [moving to Stamford Bridge]. Chelsea received me very well. I could play, scored a goal, I showed that I can play in Europe, in England. Because many say that England is very difficult. [But] I was hoping to play more.”

The former AC Milan forward turned down an offer from a Chinese club in January and remains unconvinced about the prospect of moving to the Far East.

“In Portugal, you have the example of Jonas [‘Pistolas’ Oliveira], who was very good, was vying for the golden boot,” he added.

“Hulk is in Russia and is in the national team. Yes, I would consider [those leagues] if some great club made an offer.

“China? I would have to think about it. I do not know if it’s so safe to play, to live in China. They pay very high wages, but I do not know if this would be the time. We had a proposal from China at Corinthians for $8 million per year. Official.”